Since the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) there is no longer such a thing as being ‘Registered Disabled’, although some local authotities to do still carry a register to help them assess who needs their services, there is no legal obligation to do so.

However, many disabled individuals feel that they need some sort of evidence they can provide in order to protect themselves such as in employment related issues.

Being in receipt of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) could very well provide the protection that some disabled people feel they need as well as providing an extra income.

DLA is a tax-free benefit that can be claimed by individuals, whether they are working or not, who need help with personal care or have difficulties walking because they are physically or mentally disabled. Medical examination are not normally required a when a claim for DLA is made.

DLA has two 'component' parts a ‘care component’ (if you need help looking after yourself) and a ‘mobility component’ (if you can't walk or need help getting around) Individuals maybe entitled to receive just one or both components.

Receiving DLA might increase the amount of other benefits individuals are entitled to, such as Income Support, Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit, Working Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit and is ignored as income for working out income-related benefits and credits.

You can get a DLA claim pack and get more information sbout DLA by visiting the Direct Gov website.